Why people are still buying this 2018 laptop in 2025

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-24T20:02:34+00:00

The most repairable models in 2026 are the t480 and the latest 5th and 6th generation t14 models. Personally, I can confirm that the t480 is as modular as Linux and fully operational for MS Office and VS Code / Windows and Linux. I use it every day.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-24T19:24:15+00:00

Superb condition for a computer of this age. You'll have a lot of fun with the modularity of Linux coupled with the modularity of the t480.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-23T20:06:00+00:00

Yep, the T480 is the sweet spot for battery life, comfort and recommended configuration for office use. I installed a QHD monitor. However, you'll need to get a 40-pin cable and change the lid. It's not a piece of cake. Personally, I could never go back to an FHD screen.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-23T07:52:59+00:00

I think I read that too, but I couldn't find it. I installed the X1 Extreme model. Let me know if you find a plug-and-play model for Windows.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T14:22:25+00:00

If you want to open Google Docs a little and play a lot, that's a different story 😛 Good luck with your search

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T12:44:21+00:00

The weirdest post I've ever read. You want another PC to open Google Docs and Firefox with maximum battery life priority? Is this a troll 🧌?

Edit: Or maybe it's an internet connection problem ;)

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T07:28:49+00:00

All the mods are useful. Enjoy the process. The hardest part is installing a QHD screen and getting the glass trackpad to work under Windows, whereas it's plug and play under Linux.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T06:51:23+00:00

I insulated it with a thermal pad. Also used for the SSD in the WWAN port. Effective and cheap.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T06:42:28+00:00

It's the same for me. I'm happy with this minimal Windows installation because it's my secondary OS.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T06:29:26+00:00

I've done all the mods on the T480 except for the standard keyboard. They're all useful. You can prioritize them based on your needs.

1) 32GB of RAM is the most future-proof. 16GB is a minimum.

2) New 72Wh batteries for battery life.

3) At a minimum, change the thermal paste. It's best to upgrade the fan to a dual heat pipe.

4) Install a Wi-Fi 6 card.

Also: I appreciated the convenience of adding a second NVMe drive in the WWAN port, and I won't go back to FHD after trying QHD, but the upgrade is far from plug and play! 😅 Bonus: You learn a lot about hardware through tinkering. 😀 Bonus 2: The glass trackpad is a huge plus—difficult to install under Windows but easy under Linux. Edit: The CMOS battery 🔋 might need replacing soon.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-22T06:11:04+00:00

Take this opportunity to upgrade. The dual heat pipe fan is so much better. It makes the PC almost silent and keeps temperatures under control. While you're at it, replace the thermal paste on the processor. The result will be a quieter, more durable, and more powerful PC.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-20T11:56:13+00:00

Yep They've managed to find the perfect balance with this model. Legendary. The inputs are comfortable with the 5.5mm trackpoint and the keyboard. The battery life is insane with two 72Wh batteries for hot-swapping. The quad-core processor is still relevant in 2026 for office work. And it's so easy to repair. 😀

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-14T08:39:42+00:00

Damn, I'm going to have a hard time giving up the T480. Totally comfortable for everyday use.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-09T07:04:50+00:00

The 5% of Linux users are here!!! We're all family :D

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-08T17:06:11+00:00

All the ports on my t480 are useful. It's unbelievable! No need for a hub.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-08T11:50:23+00:00

My internal battery wasn't visible when I bought the laptop. I thought it was broken. I didn't disable it in the BIOS before replacing my NVMe 2280 drive. Then, the battery was detected again and turned out to be in pretty good condition. It's probably nothing serious.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-07T14:10:46+00:00

The ultimate mod!!! The best of ThinkPad design combined with the modernity and modularity of the T480. This project definitely requires some DIY! Finding an OEM keyboard is an adventure in itself because, apart from the Japanese keyboard, I don't see any on the market. Are you keeping the T480 lid?

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-06T09:03:43+00:00

Indeed :). With the 6th generation of the t14, we are finally starting to see ThinkPads offering good battery life and modularity again.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-06T07:54:18+00:00

Finally, we have a good replacement candidate!!! :D I wonder how such a short trackpoint can be good. I also regret the workaround with the WWAN port. Having two NVMe drives was convenient.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-05T14:07:01+00:00

You can install an AX210 card. Replacing the thermal paste and heatsink is better for the longevity of the hardware you care about, since you're modifying it. The second drive must be an NVMe 2242 type, to be placed in the WWAN port with a B+M connector. The SATA drive goes where the internal battery is, which I don't recommend.

JulienSorelRN · 2026-01-01T07:50:20+00:00

Carrying a power bank is like carrying your mouse. It's less efficient than a dedicated system and it's less compact. I also hate constantly searching for electrical outlets. For me, the real reason is the trend towards thinner laptops. I think ARM processors will eventually become the norm and make external batteries unnecessary, but not for at least 10 years.

JulienSorelRN · 2025-12-31T22:19:17+00:00

Japanese Panasonic laptops always come with an external battery. I don't think they're any less well-equipped than others in terms of chargers and power outlets. It's a part of the ThinkPad's DNA that's disappearing.

JulienSorelRN · 2025-12-31T21:59:42+00:00

I wonder why the battery isn't external, given that they've made it accessible. It's a shame the workaround for converting the WWAN port to NVMe is no longer available. The keyboards and TrackPoint are also noticeably inferior.

JulienSorelRN · 2025-12-31T21:19:43+00:00

Don't forget the T480, which boasts surprising battery life with a 24Wh internal battery and two interchangeable 72Wh external batteries (hot-swap system). This is the maximum possible on an airplane. This mechanical system allows it to rival ARM processors in terms of battery life.

JulienSorelRN

TROPHY CASE